Collin Morikawa is charging toward a crucial stretch of the PGA Tour season with renewed optimism after a back injury sidelined him recently. The 27-year-old star confirmed his intention to compete at next week's Valero Texas Open, his final tune-up before the Masters at Augusta National.
"My back feels really positive," Morikawa told ESPN's Marty Smith, radiating confidence about his recovery timeline. The injury forced him to withdraw during the first round of the Players Championship, a frustrating setback for the normally durable competitor.
Recalling the moment his injury flared up at TPC Sawgrass, Morikawa described the sudden nature of the issue. "I felt fine in warm-up," he said. "I just knew it was gone. Like I just had the feeling before when it's happened. And I just, I can't swing through it. Trust me, I would play if I could. It's just the worst thing in the world."
The world No. 8 has been one of golf's most consistent performers this season with three top-10 finishes, including a victory at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. His T5 finish at the Arnold Palmer Invitational demonstrated his ability to contend even while managing physical challenges.
While rehabbing his back, Morikawa still celebrated a team victory as part of TGL's Los Angeles Golf Club, which defeated Tiger Woods' Jupiter Links squad for the Season 2 title. The team success provided a silver lining during his recovery period.
Augusta National has been kind to Morikawa throughout his young career. In six Masters appearances, he's recorded five top-20 finishes including a third-place showing last year. His strategic game and elite iron play make him a perennial contender at the season's first major.
As the golf world turns its attention to the year's first major, all eyes will be on Morikawa's performance at the Valero Texas Open. His ability to test his back under tournament conditions could determine whether he arrives at Augusta National at full strength or still working through limitations.